John Rowe

California, USA, Jimmy, oil, 48 x 36"

My Inspiration

I have known Jimmy for six years. He is a mason and has worked on several projects around our property. Jimmy considers himself an artist in stone. His word is his bond and a project is done “when it is done.” Probably because I work alone as an artist and Jimmy works alone we tend to talk at the end of the day about our projects or our lives a little more than some people might. One swelteringly hot day Jimmy was building me a flagstone patio and trying to make every joint perfect. He had turned red in the heat, every move he made was labored and slow. Just as he turned to pick up some tools I was struck by the lights, shadows, his furrowed brow and the dazed expression on his face. I asked if he would pose for me.

My Design Strategy

Once I had this photo reference of Jimmy I was ready to compose my painting. I’m interested in making a painting, which expresses not only a person’s physical characteristics but also their inner self. When we talk to someone we constantly scan and focus on their eyes, nose and mouth—features that give us insight into that person. These are the areas I painted in sharper focus. The parts of the head that recede I painted less complex and softer. I began this portrait by creating multiple digital layers with several photos sandwiched and pieced together to push and pull the shadows and lights. I ended up with 14 varied color studies to choose from and work with.

My Working Process

After toning my canvas green, I mirrored my composition to a large, flat screen monitor so I could stand at my easel and paint just like working from a model. There are always few hundred little adjustments and simplifications needed to translate a photo reference into a painting. I began with the eyes and worked out to the edges of the canvas. I paint the chroma and values up to about 60 percent until my subject begins to appear. Next, I work all around the painting completing the work and looking to strengthen the emotion. I use very little or no medium while working and paint in thin layers. Translucent layers are added or previous work is repainted each day. The brushwork for this painting is intended to capture Jim’s spirit.

Contact Details

Email: john@john-rowe.com

Website: www.john-rowe.com